Up, Up, and Away

I kept going up and up and got carried away making this piece. This is the last of the white clay, little loafers, and it may be the last I ever use it. After discussing cracking issues with several potter friends, we have determined the cracking may be the fault of the clay. I was all set to drive to Asheville to replenish my clay supply to avoid driving in Atlanta traffic but that may have to change. I'd like to go back to using Axner/Laguna clay of Macabee WC 901 which I was using in Florida.

Here are some more ribbon vases drying. A few months ago Gary said, Why are you making all of those? I guess he couldn't see a need for them. At the recent farmer's market another vendor who sells soaps plans to use my ribbon vases and leaves to package some of her soaps. Lots of other folks were purchasing leaves and vases too. The leaf plates have many uses, spoon rests, soap dishes, bread and butter dishes, candy dishes, the list goes on and on.

I was also was approached by two local stores wanting to carry my work. Even if folks don't purchase pottery in my booth, I never know what they may have in mind. I need to step up my production. 'Production' - what in the heck have I gotten myself into?

I started making work with the last bag of speckled brownstone clay. I like using this clay in addition to a white clay because the same glazes develop an earthy look which appeals to different customers.

Here are a couple of extra large leaf plates drying. Meanwhile I developed a terrible stiff neck and couldn't think why. Now I realize I pulled a muscle lifting the last kiln shelf out of the kiln while holding it level and being careful not to hit the sides of the kiln where the brick is brittle. One of the hazards of working long hours in the studio.

The farmer's market was another great success yesterday. Thanks to all my new collectors and customers.

I brought some ornaments and displayed them in a basket at the front of the booth. The ornaments sold like hot cakes. Parents and grandparents were buying in advance of the holidays. Who would think ornaments would sell in the middle of summer. Thanks for reading and for all your comments.